Fashion Sketch

This design by British fashion designer David Sassoon is for Diana, Princess of Wales. The Princess wore it to the baptism of her eldest son Prince William who was baptised at Buckingham Palace by the Archbishop of Canterbury on 4 August 1982. It was a particularly special occasion for the royal family as Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother celebrated her 82nd birthday on the same day. The outfit was seen by millions as the Princess held Prince William for an official christening portrait that was published around the globe.

David Sassoon is a leading British couturier known for creating some of Diana, Princess of Wales's most iconic looks. After graduating from the Royal College of Art in 1958, David Sassoon joined the designer Belinda Bellville and formed the design house and label Bellville Sassoon in 1970. They counted Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Jackie Kennedy and members of the royal family as clients. Belinda Bellville handed over control of the company to David Sassoon in 1981 following her retirement.

Diana was introduced to Bellville Sassoon by her mother Frances Shand Kydd, this marked the start of a long-term professional relationship between the Princess and the designer.